Core terms

Header

Core terms · definition

A horizontal structural member spanning the top of an opening (door, window, cased opening) that transfers the load above around the opening to the supports on each side.

Source: InterNACHI — Inspection Glossary: Header

Where this comes up

  • Span

    The clear distance a member bridges between supports. Span tables (or an engineer) set the size and spacing required for a given load.

  • Inspection

    A code official's review of work at defined stages (rough-in, framing, final) to verify compliance before the next phase can proceed. Fai…

  • Hazard

    A condition or activity with potential to cause harm — electrical, structural, dust, fall, or material (lead, asbestos). Identifying haza…

  • Insulation

    Material that resists heat flow, rated by R-value, installed in walls, ceilings, and floors. Opened walls are the opportunity to upgrade…

  • Hard Costs

    The tangible construction costs — labor, materials, equipment — as opposed to soft costs like design fees, permits, and financing. Hard c…

  • Joist

    One of the repetitive horizontal members that support a floor or ceiling, spanning between beams or walls. Joist size, spacing, and direc…

  • Grout

    The material that fills and seals joints between tiles. Sanded, unsanded, and epoxy grouts differ in durability and stain resistance — ep…

  • Knee Wall

    A short wall, typically under a sloped roof or supporting a counter or railing, that is less than full ceiling height.

Where this term fits in a remodel

The pillar guides set terms like this one in context — what the work involves, what drives its cost, and where it sits in the sequence of a project. Pricing a specific house takes a defined scope and an on-site assessment.

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